The Results Are In!

Enterprise Minnesota’s annual State of Manufacturing® survey has become the definitive annual assessment of our state’s manufacturing economy. We ask hundreds of leaders—owners, executives, and decision-makers—how they perceive the economic landscape, particularly as it pertains to manufacturing. They also share how they are managing the current environment and preparing for the future. The data provides a snapshot of today’s challenges and a roadmap for where Minnesota manufacturing is headed.

Minnesota manufacturers know that change is constant, but lately it feels relentless. From new waves of government regulation to shifting tariff landscapes and tightening supply chains, the challenges seem to multiply daily. That’s why this year’s State of Manufacturing® survey release event on November 5 is more important than ever.

Our November 5 event in Minneapolis will include a keynote presentation by Willy Shih, the Robert and Jane Cizik Professor of Management Practice in Business Administration at Harvard Business School and a leading expert on supply chains and global manufacturing. Shih has spent decades studying how companies can build resilience in complex global markets, and his insights come at a perfect time for Minnesota’s manufacturing leaders. You’ll recognize him from his two insightful interviews with Bob Kill, Enterprise Minnesota’s president and CEO, in Enterprise Minnesota® magazine.

Shih will interpret the results of this year’s State of Manufacturing survey through a global lens—exploring how manufacturers can protect their operations and position themselves for growth in an environment shaped by tariffs, supply chain constraints, and increasing government regulation. He’ll offer practical guidance on staying competitive amidst unpredictable market forces.

Attendees can expect more than just data. This event offers a chance to connect with peers, policymakers, and industry influencers who are shaping the future of manufacturing in Minnesota. You’ll hear firsthand how other manufacturers are adapting to policy changes, tackling workforce challenges, and leveraging technology to stay ahead.

Manufacturers who stay informed and proactive will lead the next chapter of Minnesota’s industrial success. By understanding the realities of market uncertainties and identifying areas they can control—manufacturers can increase their operational strength and turn uncertainty into opportunity.

The State of Manufacturing® survey release event has become a cornerstone of Minnesota’s business calendar because it offers something rare: honest insights backed by real data, discussed in a room full of people who live those realities every day. Whether you’re a CEO, plant manager, or supplier, this event will give you knowledge and connections to strengthen your business in 2026 and beyond.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the leading thinkers on manufacturing strategy and to see where Minnesota’s industrial economy is headed.

Use this link to register and be part of the conversation.

Industry News

Manufacturing tours highlight Willmar industry
October 27, West Central Tribune

Niron Magnetics gets $10 million grant toward construction of pioneering facility
October 27, St. Cloud Times

Hennepin Tech receives $4 million in state funding to expand robotics program
October 26, Eden Prairie Local News

BioIndustrial Manufacturing and Design Ecosystem, commonly known as BioMADE, marks five years
October 24, Business Record

SCSU engineering program receives $18k for student scholarships
October 24, St. Cloud State Today

Compressed air system adds flexibility to Bemidji metal distributor’s nitrogen generation
October 22, The Fabricator

Boston Scientific opens 400,000-square-foot facility in Maple Grove
October 20, CBS News